Collections: European Art: The Miraculous Draught of Fishes (La pêche miraculeuse)

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The Miraculous Draught of Fishes (La pêche miraculeuse)

• Portfolio/Series: The Life of Our Lord Jesus Christ (La Vie de Notre-Seigneur Jésus-Christ)

In Luke’s account of the calling of the first apostles, the fishermen return empty-handed after a long night of fishing in their boats. At Jesus’ command, they lower their nets once more and harvest more fish than their boats can hold, prompting Peter to confess his unworthiness in Jesus’ presence. While the other fishermen struggle with their hefty catch, Peter bows on bended knees before Jesus, a gesture that underscores his primacy among the disciples in Luke’s Gospel.

In response to Peter’s wonder at the miracle, Jesus assures his new apostle: “Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.” Peter and his companions leave behind their fishing boats to follow Jesus in his ministry.


• Artist: James Tissot, French, 1836-1902
• Medium: Opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper
• Place Made: France
• Dates: 1886-1896
• Dimensions: Image: 6 3/4 x 9 11/16 in. (17.1 x 24.6 cm) Sheet: 6 3/4 x 9 11/16 in. (17.1 x 24.6 cm)
• Signature: Signed bottom left: "J.J. Tissot"
• Collections: European Art
• Museum Location: This item is on view in Robert E. Blum Gallery, 1st Floor
• Accession Number: 00.159.87
• Credit Line: Purchased by public subscription
• Image: Overall, 00.159.87_PS1.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2006
James Tissot (French, 1836-1902). The Miraculous Draught of Fishes (La pêche miraculeuse), 1886-1896. Opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper, Image: 6 3/4 x 9 11/16 in. (17.1 x 24.6 cm) Sheet: 6 3/4 x 9 11/16 in. (17.1 x 24.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Purchased by public subscription, 00.159.87 (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 00.159.87_PS1.jpg)